The 35 story tower is located on a small (360 sq meter) corner lot in downtown Melbourne and will include ground floor retail, three floors of offices and 154 apartments. Density is balanced in this development with four community gardens (one on every sixth floor) facing north, east, south and west so as to be enjoyable in every season. As the corner location is very prominent, the architects are also exploring solar-powered lighting to make the tower a landmark by lighting it up in the early evening.
Clad in heat reflective glass, Crystal Gardens will minimize solar heat gain, but still enjoy ample daylighting. Each apartment enjoys a faceted balcony, which will give the building the appearance of a sparkling crystal draped in greenery. Rainwater will be collected from the facades and used to water the gardens and flush toilets. Then, to minimize energy usage, the building will feature energy efficient lighting, appliances, and innovative heating, cooling and hot water supply plants located in each garden area.
Via WAN
